Academics and clinical practice are not the only concerns of LSUHSC School of Dentistry (LSUSD) students. Despite their significant workload, students have stepped up to help address the budgetary issues facing higher education and other nonprofits.

Clay pigeon shoot co-chairs, from left, Adam Quartano and Matt George

Student-led fundraising events held this spring include the annual LSUSD Student Government Association Clay Pigeon Shoot, chaired by dental students Adam Quartano and Matthew George, and the American Student Dental Association Vendor Fair, chaired by dental student Reid Owens. Collectively, the events netted over $20,000 to benefit student education programs and the student government association. As their fund balances grow, both groups plan to underwrite programs that impact student education at LSUSD, such as continuing education for student leaders, facility enhancement projects, and outreach activities.

In recent months, four additional projects have been held to benefit nonprofit organizations. In February Dr. Bijal Naik, first-year pediatric dentistry resident, organized a successful book drive for the patients of the LSU Pediatric Dentistry Clinic and the Children's Hospital Dental Clinic. Over 200 books were donated and are now available for children to read while they wait for their appointments.

Dr. Bijal Naik, book drive organizer

In April second-year dental student Rekha Wadhwa organized the first-ever charity golf tournament, which raised over $2,000 to benefit Operation Smile, an organization that works in over 60 countries to transform the lives of children who suffer from cleft lip, cleft palate, and other facial deformities.

Students are also collecting toiletries for Covenant House, a New Orleans homeless shelter for teens, and new shoes for the Shoes for Orphan Souls organization, a humanitarian aid effort that provides new shoes and socks to orphans and vulnerable children in the United States and throughout the world.

A philanthropic spirit is a character trait valued at LSUSD. We expect only the best and our students have certainly exceeded our expectations. It is our hope that they will continue to positively impact their communities and the world as they embark on their careers in dentistry.

Stephanie B. Weaver, DDS ’99, a general dentist practicing in Lake Charles, was installed as Louisiana Dental Association (LDA) president for 2013-2014. She is the association’s first female president.Nelson Daly, DDS ’93, a general dentist practicing in Baton Rouge, was installed as president-elect of the LDA for 2013-2014. He is past-president of the LSUSD Alumni Association.George Arch, DDS ’02, GPR ’03, Endodontics ’05, was named the 2013 recipient of the LDA New Dentist Award. The award recognizes dentists who have practiced for fewer than 10 years and distinguished themselves by giving their time and talents for the betterment of mankind. Dr. Arch practices endodontics in New Orleans.

Three dentists received the LDA Distinguished Service Award, the highest honor bestowed by the association:Charles B. Foy, DDS ’84, lives in Madisonville and is a dental consultant/forensic odontologist for the
St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office. L. King Scott, DDS ’78, is a general dentist in
West Monroe. He is a member of the Board of Directors
of the LSUSD Alumni Association.Donald Toso, DDS Loyola ’66, earned his Master of Science in Oral Biology and Orthodontic Certification from Loyola University of Chicago. He is a clinical professor of orthodontics at LSUSD.